2-Ethyl Hexyl Chloroformate (2-EHCF)

2-Ethylhexyl chloroformate is a clear to pale yellow liquid used as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly for producing carbamates, urethanes, and activated esters. Structurally, it features a chloroformate group (–COCl) attached to a branched 2-ethylhexyl chain, which imparts hydrophobicity and steric bulk, influencing its reactivity and solubility profile.

It is typically used in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and polymer synthesis, where it serves as a carbamoylating agent or a protecting group precursor. It reacts readily with nucleophiles such as amines and alcohols, forming carbamates and esters under mild conditions.